I'm not doing anything, and yet I'm also doing the most important thing a man can do: I'm listening to what I needed to hear from myself.
Paulo CoelhoRead
I think bridges have a special meaning in our life. I think a book is a bridge. Any type of art is a bridge that allows different cultures to connect. You may not understand your neighbour's way of seeing life, but you sure understand your neighbour's joy in painting or dancing.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Bridges symbolize connection, and books and art help us understand diverse cultures and experiences.
In this quote, Paulo Coelho emphasizes the significance of bridges as symbols of connection in our lives. He expresses the idea that just like physical bridges, books and various forms of art serve as conduits, allowing individuals from different cultures to engage and connect emotionally, even if they don't fully grasp each other's perspectives on life. Through shared artistic expressions, we can appreciate and relate to the universal emotions of joy and creativity that transcend cultural barriers.
Themes
BridgesArtCultureConnectionUnderstanding
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of cultural exchange and understanding.
More from Paulo Coelho
All quotes →Each stone, each bend cries welcome to him. He identifies with the mountains and the streams, he sees something of his own soul in the plants and the animals and the birds of the field.
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We need to clear our minds of bad thoughts.
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Having the courage to take the steps we always wanted to take is the only way of showing that we trust in God.
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The fool who loves giving advice on our garden never tends his own plants
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Sometimes the Warrior feels as if he were living two lives at once.
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